The Reason For Merpalooza 2012 Location CHange (PLEASE RESPOND)

[Stephanie Sims]

I think we should make sure that he really did say those things first, before we do anything rash. Not saying that what Stephanie says isn't reputable, but it's possible things can get misconstrued when both sides get emotional about a particular subject.

... but it's also possible that I'm too distrusting at times.

With one hundred percent respect for any skepticism anyone may have, please allow me to assure you that I have been in business for years and, as the trademark owner of the word/event name Gasparilla (for one thing), I would NEVER do anything that may put myself into a situation where I could be sued and possibly lose my trademark. For those of you that may not know, Gasparilla is Tampa's big festival of Pirates and I do their pageant and some other events, as well as work with the city and the tourism board for purposes of them using the name. If I did not have proof in writing and on voice recorder...Yes, I recorded the conversation...I would not have exposed this. I realized I might be up for possible scrutiny. **I think this man IS the owner, or possibly one member of an ownership group that owns the Palms, as it is not a big chain hotel...It's a matter of public record that it's owned by a private owner/oenership group. So I feel he has no one he really needs to answer to... *I intend to sue him after the event, and big time. I just NEEDED to let everyone know how they perceived - correction - how he perceived us. I knew, based on what he was saying that our event was not going to get support there...and I COULD not find out the hard way that media wouldn't be welcome/other guests might intrude on our special night, etc.

[Mermaid Dottie]

Random side note to the thread story (because I'm so tempted to go over there right now and give that Marshall a piece of my mind!) - I "squee'd". LOL Please tell your brother I love him and to never change! ^_^

I doubt he ever will, sweetie. He's performing on Heaven's stage, now, ever since he was the victim of a hate crime in January. I really appreciate that, though, and I'm sure he does, too.
This is him.

[Moonflower]

I doubt he ever will, sweetie. He's performing on Heaven's stage, now, ever since he was the victim of a hate crime in January. I really appreciate that, though, and I'm sure he does, too.
This is him.

I'm so sorry! He was beautiful! <3 *hugs*

[Moonflower]

I showed this story to a friend of mine who works for a local company (a/v supplies for events) that worked with the Palms. They (her company) just pulled out of a multi-million dollar contract with the Palms because of their bigotry.

[MermanJesse]

Check out this!

http://www.stylecoven.com/post/28595...88381481237582

[AniaR]

great article, read the comments in the comments section! Looks like they're already losing a lot of business over it

[Danimer]

If this is really true, alert the media - locally and otherwise. It's an interesting story and could actually result in greater public awareness of the event.

[Stephanie Sims]

If this is really true, alert the media - locally and otherwise. It's an interesting story and could actually result in greater public awareness of the event.

Any support we can get, anyone who DOES want to alert the media...Please feel free. *My main focus is on the event, but AFYTER, i do intend to go forward with action against this guy and the old location...We are going to have a great event! I probably won't be on again until it's over..So looking forward to meeting many of you!! Steph

[Danimer]

Have forwarded the story to several reporters, local and otherwise. If you hear from them, it might be worthwhile to give them a few minutes of your time, as it could result in great coverage for the event (which I wish I could attend!). This is a good contender for "weird news" journalists, but don't discriminate against them - one of them helped start my career!

[Merman_Shawn]

I'd like to say I'm surprised, but Florida has always been against gay rights. Of course there is a thriving gay community there, but it is sadly under-represented in the political arena. The fact the local government won't support them, makes these bigots feel justified in discriminating.
I won't be making it this year, but I really feel for you all. Best wishes!

[Spindrift]

With one hundred percent respect for any skepticism anyone may have, please allow me to assure you that I have been in business for years and, as the trademark owner of the word/event name Gasparilla (for one thing), I would NEVER do anything that may put myself into a situation where I could be sued and possibly lose my trademark. For those of you that may not know, Gasparilla is Tampa's big festival of Pirates and I do their pageant and some other events, as well as work with the city and the tourism board for purposes of them using the name. If I did not have proof in writing and on voice recorder...Yes, I recorded toohe conversation...I would not have exposed this. I realized I might be up for possible scrutiny. **I think this man IS the owner, or possibly one member of an ownership group that owns the Palms, as it is not a big chain hotel...It's a matter of public record that it's owned by a private owner/oenership group. So I feel he has no one he really needs to answer to... *I intend to sue him after the event, and big time. I just NEEDED to let everyone know how they perceived - correction - how he perceived us. I knew, based on what he was saying that our event was not going to get support there...and I COULD not find out the hard way that media wouldn't be welcome/other guests might intrude on our special night, etc.

Sorry, missed this. Thank you for your insight and clarification, Stephanie. It is both unfortunate and unprofessional that people act this way and think it is fine to do so. If you (directing this to people like Mr. Marshall Thompson) don't agree with your job or you can't do it right, quit, and save everyone the time and resources to deal with your incompetence. Stephanie, I'm looking forward to see how the event will go!